Thailand Rural Teaching

Travel to Thailand – the jewel of Asia – and take part in a cultural exchange that will leave you forever in love with the serene people, entrancing wildlife, jewel-like landscapes and perfect beaches that this magical destination has to offer. Teaching English to children in a rural school will help you integrate with local communities and give you a privileged insight into Thai culture and customs. In your spare time you can explore the exquisite Thai countryside discovering ancient temples, overgrown ruins, nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. You can even enjoy a range of adventurous sports, treks and hikes. Visit this perfect destination for an enjoyable and rewarding gap year adventure.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Immerse yourself in true Thai culture

Gain insight to the education system

PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

Minimum age of 18 years

FAST FACTS

Location

Thailand

Activities

Teach English
Explore different teaching methods
Develop the curriculum

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?

After an Introduction Week, this programme consists of working with local students aged between seven and 18 years old at one of the local schools. The schools encourage a non-formal approach to teaching which means that you will not have to conform to the local teaching methods or style and you will be free to choose your own way of teaching and may bring your own ideas into class. It is important to understand that your methods of teaching are less important than your attitude towards the students. Also, the subjects you teach can vary depending on current activities in the schools and might include, for example, environmental issues.

Nobody expects you to teach the students to speak English fluently in four weeks – everyone involved considers it more important for the children to develop an interest and a desire to learn English and to have exposure to foreign volunteers and to learn about the world outside of their community.

The teaching programme serves a dual purpose. Not only it is meant to help children in rural Thailand to have a chance to speak more English (usually even their teachers aren’t up to standard), it will also give you an insight into the education system and the opportunity to make real friends among the students and teachers alike.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I ARRIVE?

You'll fly into Bangkok International Airport on the weekend preceding your project where you'll either be collected by a friendly project representative or if you prefer you can meet the project coordinator at the Royal Hotel in Bangkok on the Sunday at 1pm.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

Your new home will be a shared eco-house in a volunteer camp in central Thailand. The camp is situated about 10 km from the town of Singburi where you will find all the amenities you could need such as internet, shops, swimming pool, hospital, pharmacy, banks and restaurants. There are plenty of organised trips into Singburi or you can easily take a short and affordable 15 minute taxi ride.

The houses sleep from 20 to 50 people. All houses have single gender twin shared rooms and Western style toilets. Each bathroom has a shower and the water is always cool – nice and refreshing in the heat! All houses have wifi, laundry facilities and a communal area where you can eat, relax and meet. The doors and windows are screened to protect you from mosquitoes and there are fans in each room. There is also an internet cafe situated locally.

WHAT WILL I BE EATING?

All food is included during your stay. The meals will be typical Thai fare, including plenty of rice and noodle dishes. Thai is one of the world's most exciting cuisines, and if you're willing to experiment, you'll be richly rewarded. Contrary to popular belief, not all Thai food is fiery hot and there are plenty of tasty dishes suited to the Western palate. This hybrid cuisine has been influenced by soups and noodle dishes from China, curries from India and satays from Indonesia. Most dishes incorporate four elements: sweet, sour, salty and hot flavours.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

A range of adventure and cultural activities such as visits to remote villages, canopy tours, and river rafting may be available. Ask your local hosts to arrange extra activities for you – they will help ensure that you get the best prices and booking direct helps to support the local economy.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

To apply for this placement, click on "Apply Now" below. Fill in the short application form and one of our advisers will then call you back to answer any questions and make sure this is the perfect placement for you. Applying doesn't cost a penny and you won't pay anything until you're completely happy and you're ready to reserve your place.